Norway bans AI use in primary schools to boost reading and writing

The Norwegian government announced that, starting in August, students aged 6 to 13 (grades 1‑7) will be prohibited from using generative artificial‑intelligence tools in primary schools. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the measure is intended to strengthen basic skills such as reading, writing, and mathematics and to prevent reliance on AI for completing assignments.

AI tools will be allowed only in a limited, supervised manner for lower‑secondary students (ages 14‑16) and taught responsibly for older students (17‑19). The restriction is part of a broader effort that previously banned smartphones in classrooms and limited social‑media access for minors, and aims to re‑introduce more traditional books and handwritten work.

Authorities argue that manual writing activates brain regions linked to memory and comprehension more effectively than digital text, and that early‑stage AI use could undermine critical thinking. The policy is expected to influence the ongoing global debate on balancing technological innovation with fundamental learning methods.